BMW's latest concept, the Vision Neue Klasse X, is a testament to the brand's commitment to innovation. This new model is a harbinger of the design direction for future BMW SUVs, including the iX M60 and iX2. The vehicle's silhouette is a leap forward, presenting a modern aesthetic that is both clean and sophisticated, signaling a new era for the marque's design language.
The Vision Neue Klasse X is not just a mere concept; it is the culmination of BMW's Vision series prototypes, showcasing a refined exterior and an interior that exudes a sense of home. This model is a bold statement, pushing the boundaries of what is expected from the brand's SUV lineup.
One of the most iconic features of BMW vehicles, the kidney grille, has undergone a transformation in the Vision Neue Klasse X. This design element has been a topic of much debate, with recent electric models sporting a larger grille. However, the Vision Neue Klasse X revisits this feature with a vertical orientation, reminiscent of nostrils, flanked by slender headlights that stretch across the vehicle's face. This new interpretation is bound to attract attention and stir conversation among enthusiasts and critics alike.
The grille's evolution is a nod to BMW's heritage while embracing the future, striking a balance between tradition and innovation. It is a design choice that is both bold and respectful of the brand's storied past.
BMW's design team has crafted the rear of the Vision Neue Klasse X with a minimalist approach, resulting in a cleaner and more streamlined look. The rear lights extend almost the entire width of the vehicle, stopping just before the embossed BMW badge, creating a visual that is both striking and elegant.
This cleaner design is not only about aesthetics but also functionality, as it contributes to the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency. The rear of the Vision Neue Klasse X is a testament to BMW's attention to detail and commitment to blending form with function.
The Vision Neue Klasse X is a showcase of BMW's latest technological advancements, including the replacement of traditional wing mirrors with camera technology. This not only enhances the vehicle's sleek profile but also improves its aerodynamic performance, potentially increasing the electric range. The interior is bathed in light, thanks to deep windows and a panoramic roof, ensuring a bright and inviting cabin experience.
The vehicle's bonnet and squared-off wheel arches are reminiscent of the iX2's design, reinforcing the SUV's robust stance while maintaining a sense of sophistication and modernity.
Inside, the Vision Neue Klasse X mirrors the saloon model's interior but introduces a new color palette and heavily textured surfaces. The back seats are designed to resemble a high-end sofa, offering unparalleled comfort. The dashboard is a marvel of minimalism, featuring BMW's Panoramic Vision, a wide strip at the base of the windshield that displays various functions accessible to all passengers.
The driver is greeted with a pared-back 3D head-up display that provides essential information without distraction. This focus on driver-centric design ensures that navigation and media are conveniently located within the Panoramic Vision, streamlining the driving experience.
The center screen of the Vision Neue Klasse X is a masterpiece of ergonomic design, angled for optimal visibility by all occupants. It integrates the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, offering a more intuitive and human-like voice interaction. While the vehicle embraces digital controls, BMW has wisely retained manual controls for certain functions, ensuring a tactile connection between the driver and the machine.
BMW's design director, Adrian van Hooydonk, emphasizes the importance of maintaining manual controls for indicators and drive selection, ensuring that the driving experience remains engaging and responsive.
The introduction of the Hypersonx wheel in the Vision Neue Klasse X represents a sonic innovation that allows for real-time sound generation, adjustable with a simple tap. This feature is shrouded in mystery, but it hints at a new level of auditory customization that could rival the Sound Drive by Will.i.am for Mercedes or BMW's own IconicSounds Electric composed by Hans Zimmer.
This digital function is a clear indication of BMW's commitment to enhancing the sensory experience of driving, adding an auditory dimension that is both innovative and immersive.
While the Vision Neue Klasse X remains a prototype, it is a clear indicator of BMW's direction for its next-generation vehicles. According to Adrian van Hooydonk, these prototypes are a close representation of what will eventually make it to production, with about 90% of the design expected to be retained.
As anticipation builds, it is likely that an X-series model will be the first to feature BMW's next-generation platform. The unveiling of a new iX or a model akin to the X6 or X7 by year's end is a possibility that has fans eagerly waiting.